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ARB is moving to a new approach for the Prescribed Examination.
The new exam will:
- Focus on direct assessment of knowledge and skills, rather than qualification mapping
- Align with ARB’s new education framework and Competency Outcomes
- Continue to be delivered by ARB
From spring 2027, ARB will introduce a new route to registration for individuals who hold ARB-accredited Part 2 and Part 3 qualifications but do not have an ARB-accredited Part 1. As a result, ARB will discontinue the Part 1 Prescribed Exams, with the final sittings expected to take place in October or November 2026, depending on application numbers.
Background and engagement
ARB first announced proposals to move to a new approach to the Prescribed Exam in October 2024, with the proposals being consulted on until 6 January 2025. The results of that consultation were published in a consultation report in July 2025.
Next steps
ARB is currently developing proposals for the new Prescribed Exam. These will be made available for consultation in 2026 later this year.